To register your first company in India, decide the structure, agree the shareholding between founders, appoint directors, get DSC, file SPICe+ for incorporation, and then open a bank account and set up accounting and compliance. Spend the most time on founder agreements and shareholding.
Key takeaways
- Agree equity, roles and vesting in writing before you incorporate.
- A Private Limited company suits most first-time founders planning to raise funds.
- Keep personal and company money separate from the first rupee.
- Plan your first 90 days of compliance, not just the certificate.
01Decisions to make before filing
- Structure: Private Limited for funding plans; LLP for service businesses.
- Shareholding: who owns what, and what happens if a founder leaves.
- Directors: at least one resident director is required.
- Name: unique, memorable and clear of trademark conflicts.
Founder disputes are the top reason young companies break. A simple shareholders' agreement with vesting prevents most of them.
02Registration in four moves
- Prepare documents and register Digital Signature Certificates.
- File SPICe+ with name, directors, capital and registered office.
- Receive the Certificate of Incorporation, PAN and TAN.
- Open the bank account and bring in the share capital.
03Your first 90 days
- Appoint the first auditor and hold the first board meeting
- Register for GST and professional tax if applicable
- Set up bookkeeping and monthly reporting
- File the commencement declaration within 180 days
Use accounting software from the start. Cleaning up a year of untracked entries costs far more than setting it up now.
Frequently asked questions
Can a student or salaried person register a company?
Yes, as long as the person is eligible to be a director and employment terms permit it.
What is the minimum capital?
There is no legal minimum for a Private Limited company, but choose an amount that reflects the business.
Do I need to hire a CA?
A professional must certify the incorporation declaration, and ongoing accounts and tax need professional support.
How long until I can start invoicing?
Usually 2 to 3 weeks including bank account opening, and GST registration if required.
This guide is general information based on Indian law as understood in October 2026. Rules, fees and due dates change, so confirm current requirements with a qualified Chartered Accountant before you act. It is not professional advice.